What was your water temperature? I bought some rather expensive sheets and when I washed them for the first time the smell did not leave. So I read the washing directions and it said to wash them in hot water. I never use hot water - but I did this time and it did the trick. Did you check the washing directions for your throws?
Also, when I have very dirty items now, I use Oxy-Clean, it it is just smells, I use baking soda.